by InTrieste
On October 29, 2025, the University of Trieste will host an afternoon conference dedicated to raising awareness among younger generations about breast cancer prevention. The event, held in collaboration with the Italian League for the Fight Against Cancer (LILT), is part of the annual “Pink October” initiative, a nationwide month focused on women’s health and breast cancer awareness.
The gathering will take place from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Aula Magna at the university’s main campus on Piazzale Europa. Titled “Breast Cancer and Young People: Understanding Risk and Protecting the Future,” the conference aims to inform students and the broader community about early diagnosis, hereditary risks and lifestyle factors linked to breast cancer.
University Rector Donata Vianelli will open the event with institutional greetings, followed by a video message from LILT President Francesco Schittulli. The program will be introduced by Vanessa Nicolin, the Rector’s Delegate for Student Well-Being and Inclusion, and molecular biology professor Bruna Scaggiante, who also sits on LILT’s National Scientific Committee.
To encourage engagement, participants will be invited to respond to questions via the interactive platform Wooclap, accessible by smartphone or computer.
The lineup of speakers includes UniTS anatomy and pathology professor Fabrizio Zanconati, who will discuss breast cancer incidence and the importance of early diagnosis in younger patients. Scaggiante will address primary prevention and debunk common misconceptions, while Serena Scomersi of ASUGI’s Breast Unit will explore hereditary and familial risk factors. Maura Tonutti, responsible for breast imaging at ASUGI, will examine the role of imaging technologies in early detection among young women.
Midway through the program, the University Choir and Orchestra, directed by Riccardo Cossi, will perform pieces including Morten Lauridsen’s Sure on This Shining Night and Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah.
The event will also feature the presentation of the annual LILT thesis award dedicated to Rosanna Poggiolini, announced by LILT Trieste President Sandra Dudine. Organizers will conclude with key messages on actionable prevention strategies targeted toward younger people.
The conference underscores a growing focus in Italy on early-life prevention and education as health organizations work to equip younger generations with the knowledge to identify risks and foster long-term health habits.
